Stone County Small Biz Stories
In celebration of Small Business Month, we’re shining a spotlight on the heart and hustle behind Stone County’s local economy—our small businesses. These are the family-run shops, creative startups, and hometown favorites that bring character, connection, and resilience to our communities. Each story featured here highlights the passion, perseverance, and people behind the businesses that make Stone County a special place to live, work, and visit. Dive in and discover the inspiring journeys of a few of our local entrepreneurs.
Week 3 Stories
Bringing Live Music to Life: John Stauffer II and Black Oak Amp
For the past five years, John Stauffer II has been at the helm of Black Oak Amp, a family-owned outdoor concert and live entertainment venue near Table Rock Lake. As a locally operated business, Black Oak Amp prides itself on creating a small-business feel at every show — with John and his family personally involved in making each event memorable.
The Funky Twig: A Sweet Spot in Kimberling City
For nearly seven years, Kristie and Brody Usher has been serving up smiles at The Funky Twig, Kimberling City’s beloved small-town ice cream and coffee shop. Family-owned and operated, The Funky Twig has become a favorite gathering place for both locals and visitors looking to cool off after a day on Table Rock Lake. It is such a favorite, it has been voted the Best in Southwest Missouri for three years running.
Striking Success in Stone County: Chris & Sheri Coffman of Table Rock Lanes
Chris and Sheri Coffman are hitting strikes both on and off the lanes as the owners of Table Rock Lanes, a family entertainment center that’s been serving up fun in Stone County for the past two years. With bowling, an arcade, and a full restaurant, this local favorite has quickly become a go-to spot for families looking for affordable entertainment and a great meal.
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Talking Rocks Cavern
For 34 years, Talking Rocks Cavern has been welcoming visitors to discover the beauty hidden beneath the Ozarks. Open year-round, the attraction offers guided walking tours through a breathtaking natural limestone cave, richly decorated with stunning mineral deposits that captivate guests from the moment they step inside.
Week 2 Stories
Building Back a Lakeside Legacy: Lisa Klosowski and James Kavanaugh of Cedar Hollow Resort
When Lisa Klosowski and James Kavanaugh stumbled upon a quiet little lakeside resort for sale on a Google search in 2018, they had no idea the journey they were about to embark on. What they found was Cedar Hollow Resort—a once-thriving fishing destination on the James River Arm of Table Rock Lake that had fallen into decades of decline. But with determination, grit, and a vision for something more, the couple brought it back to life.
Dooley’s Resort & Chapel: A Lakeside Legacy of Love and Hospitality
Fifteen years ago, Pat and Wendie Dooley looked at a worn-down lakeside property and saw not what it was—but what it could be. Today, Dooley’s Resort & Chapel is a thriving, heartwarming retreat tucked into the Ozark Mountains, overlooking the tranquil waters of Table Rock Lake. What began as a diamond in the rough has become a beloved destination for families, couples, and generations of guests who return year after year.
Patriot Exteriors: Local Service, Lasting Relationships
For the past three years, Patriot Exteriors has proudly served the Table Rock Lake area, offering professional pressure washing and soft washing services for both residential and commercial clients. Locally and family-owned, Patriot Exteriors specializes in house soft washing, commercial building cleaning, roof soft washing, window cleaning, gutter cleaning, equipment and concrete cleaning, and more.
A Taste of Excellence: The Rogue Chef Brings the Private Dining Experience Home
Jeff and Dana Woodward are the culinary artists behind The Rogue Chef, the only private chef business within the Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce. Specializing in crafting unforgettable meals in private homes, vacation rentals, and exclusive venues, The Rogue Chef offers something truly unique for both locals and visitors to the Table Rock Lake area—a full-service dining experience brought right to your door.
Week 1 Stories
Building Champions On and Off the Mat: Championship Martial Arts Branson West
Championship Martial Arts of Table Rock Lake recently marked its one-year anniversary, and owner Mike Adams has plenty to celebrate. Since opening the school’s doors in January 2024, Mike and his team have focused on more than just Taekwondo—they’ve been shaping lives.
Realizing Dreams, One Kitchen at a Time. Midwest Cabinets and Design
With four decades of experience in the cabinetry industry and 20 years serving the local area, Tom Franiak, owner of Midwest Cabinets and Design, brings both craftsmanship and customer care to the forefront of home remodeling. Specializing in kitchen and bath cabinetry, outdoor kitchens, and custom closets, Tom and his team offer everything from DIY support to full-scale remodels and new home construction. Whether it’s a cozy lake home or a luxurious estate, Midwest Cabinets delivers quality and service with a personal touch.
Peak Electric, LLC: Powering the Community with Experience, Quality, and Commitment
For the past four years, Travis and Sheryl Peak have proudly owned and operated Peak Electric, LLC, a trusted name in the Table Rock Lake area for complete electrical services. Backed by Travis’s 25+ years as a master electrician and a combined 65 years of experience within the company, Peak Electric is committed to delivering high-quality workmanship on every project.
Shady Acre Inn & Suites: A Family Tradition of Hospitality
For 30 years, Shady Acre Inn & Suites has been part of the Juneman family legacy of welcoming visitors with warmth and care. Continuing the tradition started by Rich Juneman’s family before him, Rich and Veloris Juneman have created a small, one-of-a-kind hotel where guests are treated like family. With just 16 cozy rooms and suites, Shady Acre specializes in personal, family-style hospitality — knowing guests' names, birthdays, and even room preferences.